Explanations of poverty and food insecurity that focus on individuals' shortcomings - the idea that "If only they made better life choices"- overlooks the complex interplay of systemic factors that perpetuate these issues. Such simplistic narratives ignore the structural barriers, inequities, and societal failures that contribute to these challenges.

Reducing poverty and food insecurity requires recognizing the role of system failures, addressing systemic issues, and implementing comprehensive policies. Blaming individuals for circumstances beyond their control not only oversimplifies the problem but also perpetuates stigmatization and the unjust burdening of responsibility on those already struggling. To truly address poverty and food insecurity, we must focus on transformative solutions at the societal level.